Follow: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'follow' when referring to keeping up with updates or movements, especially on social media or in general day-to-day activities.

• I follow her on Instagram to see her latest pictures.
• You should follow the news to stay informed.

Use 'subscribe' when you want to regularly receive updates, content, or services, mainly used in the context of digital media, newsletters, or services.

• I subscribe to several tech podcasts.
• Don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.

Use 'track' when you need to follow the progress or development of something over time, often used in project management, deliveries, or fitness.

• She tracks her workouts to measure her progress.
• We are tracking the shipment to know its current location.

Use 'monitor' in a context where you need to observe or check something systematically or over a period of time, often used in professional or technical settings.

• We need to monitor the patient's vital signs regularly.
• They are monitoring the project’s progress closely.

Generally used when you are going behind someone or something to see where it goes or to stay close to it. It can also mean to monitor someone's progress or updates.

• I follow the guide through the museum.
• She follows her favorite celebrities on social media.

Often suggests a more formal or determined effort to achieve something, such as a goal or a career. It can also mean to try to catch someone, similar to 'chase' but with a more deliberate intention.

• She decided to pursue a degree in medicine.
• He pursued the suspect across the city.

Commonly used when following someone or something in a less direct or more distant manner. It can also refer to leaving a path behind.

• The detective trailed the suspect for hours.
• She trailed behind the group, taking photos.

Usually implies a sense of urgency or desire to catch something or someone moving fast. Often used in the context of action, games, or police pursuits.

• The cat chased the mouse around the garden.
• The police chased the thief through the streets.

Use when referring to keeping up with someone or something, either physically or virtually without implying any sense of urgency or intent to catch. Generally neutral.

• I'll follow you to the meeting room.
• You can follow him on social media.

Can be used in formal or more serious contexts. Implies a determined effort to achieve something or catch someone. Often used in professional or goal-oriented scenarios.

• The police are in pursuit of the suspect.
• Her relentless pursuit of excellence led to her promotion.

Commonly used when referring to monitoring the progress or movements of someone or something over time. Often implies the use of tools or methods to keep a consistent check.

• They are tracking the shipment online.
• The researchers are tracking the migration patterns of the birds.

Implies a sense of urgency and active effort to catch up with or capture someone or something. Often used in informal or dramatic contexts. Can sometimes have a negative or desperate connotation.

• The dog is chasing the cat around the yard.
• He spent years chasing his dreams without success.